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Curriculum Influences

Major influences of ACE's curriculum include:

Michael Sturm's 5 Learning Dynamics
Michael Sturm’s “5 Learning Dynamics” optimizes the strengths of individuals so that they can focus their learning and social interactive processes at work and in school. Students identify, become aware of and explore their own dynamic learning strengths and the different style strengths of others. This focused energetic process becomes the basis of the Foundation Course’s applications with students on how they successfully learn as individuals and teams; how they maximize their relationships with others; and how they and other people complete various learning tasks differently. The class’ programmed experiences guide team leaders and paired students on how to use the complementary learning strengths of others to achieve excellence more effortlessly and efficiently.

Hewlett-Packard Lab's Product Development Process
Hewlett-Packard Lab’s product-development processes, which explain how knowledge-based businesses identify consumer needs.

Current Research on Neuroplasticity
Neurologists’ research on neuroplasticity, which indicate that positive experiences, such as concentration, can improve the structure of the brain.

Conversant Solutions' Dynamic Leadership Program
The Dynamic Leadership Program by Conversant Solutions, LLC, which is used by
corporations nationally to educate top executives and managers in effective communication
and leadership. The Foundation Course uses aspects of this program to teach
students how to lead, negotiate, and how to give and take directions.

Alternatives to Violence Project
The Alternatives to Violence Project, which is used by communities, schools, and prisons
to help people live nonviolently. It helps people build relationships using affirmation,
respect, cooperation, humor, and trust. The Foundation Course uses the project’s
learning games and has adapted its structure and rhythm to build community among
cohort members.

Marshall Rosenberg's Nonviolent Communication
Nonviolent Communication, which Psychologist Marshall B. Rosenberg developed
to help people respond compassionately to each other and resolve conflicts without
violence. The Foundation Course uses aspects of Rosenberg’s communications skills to
help students understand the difference between needs and feelings. It also guides students
in ways to communicate effectively during disagreements without using negative
language.